Handel w Krakowie i dystrykcie krakowskim w okresie okupacji niemieckiej – zarys problematyki

Abstract

The article examines the trade sector in and around Krakow in the years 1939–1944. The statistical method and analysis of the source material were used for its preparation. The analysis covers mainly legal trade operating on the basis of law. After German troops seized Polish lands in 1939, the General Government was formed from a part of the territory, the capital of which was Krakow. This area was divided into smaller administrative units called districts. The occupation authorities took over a large part of the property, especially Jewish property, including numerous trading companies. During the occupation, the number of companies dealing in wholesale trade increased in Krakow and the district. For the most part, the companies were German property. At the same time, the number of retail trade companies, which were owned mainly by Polish citizens, decreased. In terms of industry, food shops and department stores prevailed. In addition to official trade, illegal trade developed and was an important source of supply for residents. Illegal market prices were many times higher than the ones set by legal trade.